Spring comes early in the fjords and maybe the best time to experience the spring in the fjord is from end of April and through May.

The landscape comes to life in spring – the mountains are still snowcapped and with the snow melting the waterfalls are full and dramatic flushing down the mountain side.

At no time during the year is the landscape more alive than in spring.

The fruit orchards along the Hardanger are a truly beautiful sight, in autumn as well as spring. The area offer fantastic cultural landscapes for walks, not to mention the chance to sample exciting locally produced food and drink.

Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell by Fjord Tours:

The best way to take in the natural spectacle of Hardanger is no doubt on the Hardangerfjord in a nutshell tour. This journey goes through a landscape of majestic mountains, wonderful waterfalls and spellbinding orchards. You can hop on and off as you wish, so there is no need to hire a car.

Dynamic Variation:

The tours depart either from Bergen or Oslo and can include an overnight stay if you wish.

It is also a fantastic opportunity to see Bergen’s historic Hanseatic wharf Bryggen, which is also like being in a painting of a bygone era, full of Norwegian detail and tradition.

Alternatively, combine the trip with a stay in the cool capital of Oslo, where you will find a vibrant city atmosphere with a sense of history and tradition.

Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell and Rosendal:

The trip includes a journey on the coastal express boat from Bergen to beautiful Rosendal in the Hardangerfjord. Rosendal is a small village surrounded by majestic mountains, and is the original site of Norway's only Barony built in the 17th century.

Five Waterfalls

Hardanger is surrounded by five large waterfalls, which frame the scenery like a painted masterpiece.

Each waterfall has its own distinct character, and their majestic power exert an almost hypnotic attraction that can only be fully understood when you experience them in person. The best time of year to experience the power of the waterfalls is in May and June, when the ice and snow is melting in the mountains.

Man relaxing outside Hotel Ullensvang.Photo: CH - Visitnorway.com

Extend your Trip

With its small castle and rose garden, the charming town of Rosendal is worth an extended stay in its own right, but there is plenty more to see in the surrounding countryside.

Take the Trolltunga hiking route in Odda for specatular views of the Ringdalsvatnet lake and the Folgefonna glacier.

Witness the power and beauty of the Vøringfossen waterfall in Eidfjord, sample the famous local cider in Ulvik, visit the captivating town of Voss or enjoy the incredible panoramas from the Ullensvang Hotel in Lofthus.

Your extended trip ends either in Bergen or Oslo.

Wherever you look on this trip, it is like being in a beautiful picture gallery where every view is a work of art.

Explore and Admire the Scenic Splendors of the Hardangerfjord Region

Cider farm route.Photo: visitnorway.com

Cider Farm Route in Ulvik

Ulvik is probably most famous for its fruit and cider farms. On this excursion you get to visit several cider farms in the region and learn about the history of cider making, as well as sampling the different ciders and juices!

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The Norway in a nutshell tour is a flexible voyage that can be arranged as a day trip or a longer excursion combining bus, train and ferries. The tour will take you through UNESCO protected wild landscapes.

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